Most of us at one time or another in our lives has had the experience of reading a book that was so good you didn't want to put it down. Even when you were finished with it the characters wouldn't leave your side. In my role as Project Manager for Big Read, Sonoma County I have been struck by the impact this year's book selection has had on local  youth and young adults.  " Bless Me, Ultima" by Rudolfo Anaya was selected to be this year's Big Read, Sonoma County book. In interviewing a group of students who had volunteered to be interviewed by KRCB I realized that this book was more than a literary classic. Yes it is well-written with interesting characters and a story line that is often unexpected but that is not what makes it a book that is treasured by young people who are immersed in social media and texting. The author has said:  "A novel is not written to explain a cutlure, it creates its own." In doing so it creates a literary experience that bridges differences, broadens perspectives, and connects us as a community. If you would like to introduce "Bless Me, Ultima" to your community--whether it be a formal reading group or some of your co-workers--contact me for free Reader's Guides and Audio Guides created by the National Endowment for the Arts to stimulate your conversation:  cheryl_scholar@krcb.org  You will also find more info at krcb.org/thebigread.and on the Big Read, Sonoma County facebook page.